Quality Technician

SUMMARY

Implements sampling and sample preparation protocols for raw materials and finished products for quality testing and evaluation. Maintains sampling and laboratory equipment. Provides assistance to Quality Analysts.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Samples raw materials using company prescribed methods.
• Prepares samples for internal and external laboratory testing.
• Operates and maintains laboratory equipment, including but not limited to: biosafety cabinets,
• balances, micro pipettes,
• Runs basic assay kits according to SOP
• Practices aseptic techniques.
• Conducts pest control activities on specified schedule.
• Performs plant inspection, testing, and sampling for quality assurance compliance.
• Initiates Product Reject Forms
• Enters and maintains sample documentation and results in LIMS database.
• Participates in continuous improvement efforts to increase company efficiency.
• Performs general clerical duties such as filing, mailing samples and report writing.
• Strives to reduce waste, recycle products whenever possible, and re-use resources when practical.
• Works safely at all times, follows safety rules and policies and participates in scheduled training.
• Reports injuries and near misses promptly and in required detailed format; proposes corrective action.
• Other duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This job has no supervisory responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duties satisfactorily. This includes a continuous requirement to be a non-tobacco user as well as avoiding the personal use of perfumes, scents or fragrances while on the job. The additional requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Associates degree (A.A.) in biology, chemistry, food science or related field from two-year college or university; and 6 months to 1 year related experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Ability to read and comprehend detailed instructions, correspondence, reports and memos. Ability to write routine reports and correspondence. Ability to speak effectively with a variety of people and respond to basic questions in situations where common courtesy and tact are needed.

QUANTITATIVE SKILLS

Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as concentrations, densities, statistical factors, dilutions, proportions, percentages, area, and volume.  Ability to apply concepts such as fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations and experimental data. Ability to use a computer to create spreadsheets and charts, and run reports.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Ability to prioritize multiple projects and work independently.
• Understands and applies good laboratory practices.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work within team concept.
• Familiarity with Word, Excel, web based and database software.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and/or fingers to type, handle, or feel and taste or smell.  The employee frequently is required to stand, walk, sit, and view a computer monitor or video display.  The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.  The employee must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and color vision, necessary to evaluate products effectively.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, outside weather conditions, and vibration.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.